Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1535806
58 S U M M E R 2 0 2 5 I C A S Q U A R T E R L Y I can't pinpoint a specific challenge because I feel like I'm constantly faced with challenges in a positive way, so I'm always adjusting and improvising on the spot. My biggest lessons come from working on indie films with tight deadlines and limited resources. You learn quickly how to problem- solve—whether it's cleaning up poor production audio, improvising sound design, or making a mix work with very little time. Those experiences taught me to remain flexible and trust my instincts. Who have been the people that have influenced you the most and what did you receive from them? This is hard because so many people in my life have influenced me—family, friends, colleagues. But I can't answer this question without mentioning Dave Schmela and Jason Strawley, the dub stage managers at Full Sail University. They've given me so much, and it's been an incredible honor to learn from them and continue doing so. They were the ones who said, "You should jump on this competition," and I still remember thinking to myself, "Me, really?" At the beginning, I was super afraid of showing them my first mixes, but now I want to show them everything. I ask a lot of questions, and they are always ready to answer or give an opinion. I couldn't be more grateful. The same goes for Hector Mundo, program coordinator at Full Sail—close friend, amazing, honest-to-God good dude. He was the one who guided me to the stage and introduced me to Jason and Dave. His work ethic and attitude are things I've slowly applied in my daily life. I don't know if he's noticed that yet, but maybe now he will! And obviously, my peers and graduate community come to mind, but I should mention three specific people who have trusted me with their time, listened, and given me opportunities to ask questions and more. They've even enjoyed great, lengthy coffee conversations with me—Jeff King, Marc Fishman, and Frank Scheuring. All three graduated from Full Sail with incredible portfolios, yet they are incredibly humble individuals who inspire me to become a solid example for others. What's your next step? Right now, I'm figuring out my game plan to make the jump to Los Angeles. Attending the CAS Awards and meeting so many professionals made me want to move even faster! I'm working on landing more gigs and setting up a strong foundation in the area before the move. Is there anything else you would like to add? I want to thank my parents, Edwin Ríos and María de los Angeles Moya, for being the biggest role models in my life. I'm happy I'm making them proud, and beyond grateful that they can share this accomplishment with me. I was too nervous (Surprise! Surprise!) when giving my speech at the awards and completely forgot to mention them (lo siento, mami y pa'), but I suppose this is a great space to say that I'm a direct reflection of them. They raised a curious individual with an immense hunger to create—I couldn't be more grateful. ¡Gracias Papi y gracias Mami! And just a huge thank you to CAS for this recognition and for supporting students who are working to break into the industry. The experience of attending the awards, meeting so many talented professionals, and now being part of the CAS community has been incredible. I'm excited for what's next! Guillermo Moya